French President Emmanuel Macron announced France's recognition of Palestine as a state, a move to be formalized at the UN General Assembly in September. This symbolic act adds diplomatic pressure on Israel amid the Gaza crisis. While the Palestinian Authority welcomed the decision, Israel and the US strongly condemned it, viewing it as rewarding terrorism and hindering peace efforts. Macron's announcement follows increased international criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and comes ahead of a UN conference on a two-state solution.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.